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In the rain Friday evening, the Obamas took the stage outside the White House to light the National Christmas Tree. (Published Friday, Dec 6, 2013)

Updated at 8:08 PM PST on Friday, Dec 6, 2013

President Barack Obama threw the switch, bathing the National Christmas Tree in lights and giving an otherwise dreary day in the nation's capital a festive and seasonal spirit. He later singled out Nelson Mandela, the beloved South African anti-apartheid leader who died Thursday, for special gratitude.

"He blessed us with tremendous grace and unbelievable courage," Obama said. "We are all privileged to live in a world touched by his goodness."

National Christmas Tree Lightings Through the Years

Before lighting the tree, Obama acknowledged the cold and rainy weather and proposed an abbreviated countdown before flipping on the lights. "We're going to start at 5; since it's little wet we shouldn't start at 10," he said.

As soon as the tree burst into color, singing diva Aretha Franklin took to the stage for a spirited version of "Joy to the World."

Nat'l Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Set for Fri.

Last minute preparations are underway to make sure everything is perfect for Friday's National Christmas Tree lighting. (Published Friday, Dec 6, 2013)

After performances by Franklin, the tenor trio Forte, Janelle Monae, Joshua Bell, Mariah Carey and Prince Royce, Obama joined the performers on stage to show off a few dance steps and close out the program.

The festivities kicked off with a 4:30 p.m. preshow. Actress and comedian Jane Lynch hosted the ceremony.

"In times of war and peace, triumph and tragedy, we've always come together to rejoice in the Christmas miracle," Obama said. "But our tree has been having a hard time recently. ...Just goes to show, nobody's job is safe here in Washington."

Changes to the annual celebration last year included a new stage location to better showcase the White House behind it, a new color scheme for the tree, and, of course, the tree itself.